is a building heat-insulating material in the form of slabs of extruded polystyrene foam, in demand due to its lightness, strength and durability. In structure, it is similar to the usual polystyrene foam, but is more dense.
The barely visible pores of the insulation, measuring from 0.1 to 1 mm, are the result of new manufacturing technologies. By appearance, the boards consist of a homogeneous material that is actually finely porous with insulated cells, providing low thermal conductivity and water resistance.
A variety of grades and enhanced strength allow it to be used for insulating floors, roofs, and foundations.
Types, technical characteristics and purpose
Since 2011, product differentiation has been introduced depending on the purpose and area of application. This allows you to quickly find out the type of insulation you need with a set of characteristics for a specific type of work and promotes maximum efficient use.
Several types of extruded polystyrene are available:
WALL, or penoplex 31 with fire retardants
Designed for insulation of surfaces without dynamic or static load. Optimal for insulating facade walls, partitions, swimming pools, wells, heating networks, water supply systems.
Characteristics:
| Properties | Unit | Index |
| Thermal conductivity, 25°С | W/(mK) | 0,03 |
| Density | kg/m 3 | 25,0–32,0 |
| Strength | MPa (kgf/cm2; t/m2) | 0,20(2,0; 20) |
| Water permeability, 28 days | % by volume | 0,5 |
| Fire protection | group | G3 |
| Working temperature | С° | from -50 to +75 |
FOUNDATION, or penoplex 35 without fire retardant
The slabs are designed for heavy loads and are durable. Perfectly matches road surfaces, foundations, floors, equipment of basements. The presence of a waterproofing barrier allows groundwater to be drained from the underground part of the house.
Characteristics:
| Properties | Unit | Index |
| Thermal conductivity, 25°С | W/(mK) | 0,03 |
| Density | kg/m 3 | 29,0–33,0 |
| Strength | MPa (kgf/cm2; t/m2) | 0,27 (2,7; 27) |
| Water permeability, 28 days | % by volume | 0,5 |
| Fire protection | group | G4 |
| Working temperature | С° | from -50 to +75 |
ROOFING, or penoplex 35
The slabs are designed for insulation of roofs and attic spaces of any type, taking into account climatic precipitation and temperature changes. Currently, it is used for flat roofs with winter gardens or parking lots placed on it (inversion roofing).
Characteristics:
| Properties | Unit | Index |
| Thermal conductivity, 25°С | W/(mK) | 0,03 |
| Density | kg/m 3 | 28,0–33,0 |
| Strength | MPa (kgf/cm2; t/m2) | 0,25 (2,5; 25) |
| Water permeability, 28 days | % by volume | 0,5 |
| Fire protection | group | G3 |
| Working temperature | С° | from -50 to +75 |
COMFORT, or penoplex 31C
Universal slabs are suitable for insulating loggias, balconies, walls and floors of saunas, and mansions. It is characterized by increased moisture resistance and provides an optimal microclimate. Thanks to technical features, slabs of this type are particularly tightly adjacent to each other.
Characteristics:
| Properties | Unit | Index |
| Thermal conductivity, 25°С | W/(mK) | 0,03 |
| Density | kg/m 3 | 25,0–35,0 |
| Strength | MPa (kgf/cm2; t/m2) | 0,20 (2,0; 20) |
| Water permeability, 28 days | % by volume | 0,5 |
| Fire protection | group | G4 |
| Working temperature | С° | from -50 to +75 |
It is used for thermal protection of take-off surfaces and roads, protects against subsidence, deformation, and swelling of the canvas. Designed for heavy loads: can withstand the weight of an aircraft in regions with low temperatures. The strongest material retains its properties for a long time.
Characteristics:
| Properties | Unit | Index |
| Thermal conductivity, 25°С | W/(mK) | 0,03 |
| Density | kg/m 3 | 35,0–47,0 |
| Strength | MPa (kgf/cm2; t/m2) | 0,50 (5,0; 50) |
| Water permeability, 28 days | % by volume | 0,4 |
| Fire protection | group | G4 |
| Working temperature | С° | from -50 to +75 |
Dimensions, thickness and cost
The stability of thermal insulation properties allows the use of slabs of medium thickness from 35 to 50 mm. This is the average for standard solution in temperate climates.
Increased thickness of penoplex up to 70 mm or more is used in northern regions, where temperatures often drop to -30 0 C. This approach is justified, especially since the usual thickness of other insulation materials reaches 150 mm.
The dimensions of the slabs are standardized by the manufacturer to standard 1200 mm in length and 600 mm in width.
Compared to other types of insulation, the cost of penoplex is quite high: the price of 1 square meter of sheet is on average $5. If the material is modified with improved qualities, including fire retardant additives, then the price will be $7-8 per 1 sq.m.
Production technology and scope
The specifics of penoplex manufacturing are aimed at improving the strength and technical characteristics of the material. It is given special properties by the process of extrusion from raw materials in special furnaces.
First, polystyrene granules are mixed with a foaming agent under conditions of high humidity and temperature. The catalyst is a composition of carbon dioxide (CO2) and freon. The composition is melted in ovens and resembles lush cream.
Then, through the extrusion installation, the substance begins to be squeezed out, the freon gradually evaporates, and the cells are filled with simple air.
The use of penoplex in the construction industry has practically no restrictions and, thanks to its technical characteristics, can significantly reduce the costs of other Consumables and energy resources.
Currently, heat insulation is in demand in different climatic conditions for insulation and protection:
- foundations and walls of low-rise buildings;
- balconies and loggias;
- pools and wells;
- ceilings and basements;
- floors and ceilings;
- water supply systems;
- airfield runways;
- railways and roads;
Penoplex of various categories is widely used in the process of reconstruction of buildings due to high stability to change external environment and chemical influences. Material used for manufacturing.
Material properties
The main characteristics of the insulation meet the requirements of building regulations:
- Low thermal conductivity coefficient. Average level corresponds to 0.027–0.031 W/m. The indicator is the best in the class of insulation. At the same time, its difference from related materials, for example, mineral wool, is not so significant. But the combination of low thermal conductivity with increased structure density provides noticeable advantages. An important factor is the constancy of the indicator, significant fluctuations in different conditions are not fixed, therefore the use of penoplex is allowed without an additional moisture-proof layer both on roofs and attics, and on foundations, floors, and basements.
- Fire resistance. Fire resistance is characterized by categories G3 or G4, which means a moderate level that exceeds the properties of foam plastic that supports combustion. Operating temperatures from -50° to +70°C are acceptable for polystyrene foam. In open fire conditions, the material is destroyed. The melting process begins, but not combustion. Some types of penoplex are characterized by enhanced treatment with chemical reagents to exhibit self-extinguishing. This improved quality corresponds to complete fire safety with extended temperature conditions operation.
- Moisture resistance. Water absorption is 0.4% of the volume over a period of 28 days. Moisture enters only into the external pores of the insulation, which are opened when cutting and installing the slabs. Closed cells are kept unchanged. In fact, it can be argued that the material does not allow moisture to pass through. For insulation of facades and roofs of buildings, such moisture resistance indicators are very significant.
- High compressive elasticity. This figure is 25-35 kg/m3 and is unsurpassed among polystyrene foam insulation. Compression resistance is achieved by uniform distribution tiny cells with good adhesion, improving the strength characteristics of the material. Penoplex does not change dimensions even under heavy loads. The slabs are very difficult to break. Only material with a small thickness of 20 mm is subject to damage, but there is no crumbling or crushing along the fault line, unlike other related insulation materials.
- Weak vapor permeability. Increased resistance is reflected in equal indicators of penoplex with a height of 2 cm and a layer of roofing material.
- Long service life. The warranty period for use is 50 years, taking into account atmospheric exposure. Under favorable climatic conditions, the slabs will last much longer while maintaining all their characteristics.
- Environmental friendliness. The use of freon in the manufacture of insulation is absolutely harmless: this type is non-flammable, non-toxic, and does not cause destruction to the ozone layer. Environmental properties are interconnected with the biostability of the insulation and the absence of toxic substances. The material is not subject to biological decay, therefore it does not require special storage conditions; the slabs can be placed on sites without shelter from precipitation or temperature changes.
- Availability of installation and processing. You can cut the slab with a regular stationery knife. The low weight allows you to cover the walls yourself without additional effort in constructing special frames. The material adheres well to glue. Weather do not interfere with installation.
- Resistance to aggressive substances. Most of building mixtures and drugs are not capable of damaging penoplex, which does not react with them. These include organic and inorganic acids, alkalis, water paints, salt solutions, ammonia, cement or concrete mixtures, alcohols and oils, bleach. Extruded polystyrene foam has virtually no chemical activity. Attention! The exceptions are ethers, gasolines, formaldehydes, and oil-based paints.
- High sound insulation. In private housing construction, the noise insulation factor is very important. Penoplex solves this problem.
Insulation Penoplex specifications and properties - penoplex is very similar in properties to expanded polystyrene, but is a new development with a completely different production technology. Due to its specificity, Penoplex is very effective in matters of wall insulation.
Penoplex insulation of building walls and balconies
Specifics of production and special properties of building materials
In the production of this insulation, a special extrusion plant is used, in which polystyrene granules can be processed under high pressure and temperature. In order for the transformation process to start, a special substance is added there to serve as a catalyst for the reaction. Often, carbon dioxide and freon in light form are used as such a catalyst.
The finished mixture is fluffy and resembles peaks of whipped cream. Through a special hole in the apparatus, the resulting substance flows outside, where the freon is replaced by air and evaporates. This material has fairly small pores - up to 0.1 - 0.2 mm, which increases its power and heat-insulating properties. It is worth noting that all cells are located evenly and isolated from the external environment.
Penoplex technical characteristics have the following:
- Minimum moisture absorption. Typically, water does not have access to the internal cells of the insulation. This has a beneficial effect on the thermal insulation capabilities. In addition, this quality makes it possible to use Penoplex in an environment with high humidity or the presence of seasonal rains for external use.
- Low thermal conductivity coefficient. Even in comparison with other heat-insulating materials, it is significantly lower and amounts to only 0.03 W*m*°C. Thermal conductivity does not depend even on changes in air humidity in the space used. Thanks to this property, insulation of this brand can be used in attics, foundations, etc. without using an additional layer to protect against moisture.
- Low vapor permeability. This shows its high durability and resistance to the penetration of gases and steam into the material. This feature characteristic of all materials made by extrusion.
Penoplex service life
- Increased service life. It can withstand a large number of freezing and thawing cycles. According to the experiments of the NIISF Institute, their minimum service life is 50 years or even more. This takes into account the influence of atmospheric phenomena.
- Increased compressive strength. Due to the presence of tiny cells of the same size and evenly laid out throughout the entire space of the material, the latter increases its resistance to mechanical stress. Even under heavy loads, its dimensions will not change or become compacted.
- Easy to assemble and install. Also easy to process. Despite its strength characteristics when installation work it is convenient to cut it into the necessary blocks using regular knife. you without special effort You can quickly and efficiently cover your walls with the insulation in question, without fear of snow, rain and frost.
- Excellent resistance to aggressive chemicals Penoplex. This applies to chemical mixtures that are used in construction work. They do not react in any way with the insulation. However, there is an exception - organic-based solvents, which can soften the slabs or even dissolve completely. Among the substances that can react are toluene, xylene, benzene, formaldehyde, formaldehyde, ketones, ethers, gasoline and other fuels, coal tar, and oil paints. However, the insulation is resistant to acids, salts, alkalis, alcohols and alcohol paints, mortars based on cement and concrete, water, freons, oils, paraffins, etc.
- Environmental friendliness and safety for human health and environment. Freons that are used in the manufacture of these plates are not dangerous, they do not burn and do not emit toxic substances.
Penoplex may also have technical characteristics such as excellent resistance to biological manifestations. Such slabs do not rot or decompose, they do not mold, which also makes them advantageous for use.
Penoplex standard sheet sizes
Installation conditions for Penoplex to maintain technical characteristics
To ensure a constant shape and size of Penoplex, the characteristics of which must remain unchanged, it is necessary to install and process in the right conditions. This applies to humidity and air temperature. To do this you need to endure permissible temperature air, at which this type insulation can function normally during long-term use.
Insulation of a balcony with penoplex
If the heating is excessive, it can not only change its shape and size. The technical characteristics of Penoplex are also violated. Because of this, it can not only begin to melt, but also ignite. Nevertheless, this disadvantage apply not only to a specific type, but also to all foam materials.
Product range
Depending on its characteristics, Penoplex is divided into several types depending on its application:
- Insulation of house walls. With its help, you can insulate the basement, building facades, partitions, as well as external and internal (if external insulation is not possible) walls.
- Foundation insulation. It has increased resistance to stress. It is also used for garden paths, insulation of floors and plinths.
- For the roof as well attic space roofs with ventilation.
- Comfort is an option that is perfect for insulating balconies, as well as mansions in general. It is also used for insulation of saunas and baths.
- For inversion type roofs, as well as thermal insulation of highways, railway etc. In this case, expanded polystyrene is used, the technical characteristics of which are several times higher than those of other types of insulation. This is especially true for resistance to various loads.
Information to note : , .
Below is a list of frequently asked questions and answers related to PENOPLEX ® thermal insulation:
Differences between PENOPLEX ® and non-pressed polystyrene foam (PSB)
PENOPLEX ® boards and expanded polystyrene (PSB) differ in their production technology. Pressless polystyrene foam is created by “steaming” microgranules with water vapor in a special form and expanding them under the influence of temperature. Thermal insulation PENOPLEX ® is made by mixing polystyrene granules at elevated temperature and pressure with the introduction of a foaming agent and subsequent extrusion from the extruder. That is why PENOPLEX ® expanded polystyrene is called extruded. Also, thanks to the production technology using this technology, PENOPLEX ® receives a closed, fine-porous structure, which in turn ensures high strength, almost zero water absorption, as a result - biostability and the highest durability of PENOPLEX ® boards. An important factor is also the lower thermal conductivity of PENOPLEX ® compared to pressless polystyrene foam (PSB), which makes it possible to reduce the thickness of the required thermal insulation by approximately 30%.
Which insulation to choose: PENOPLEX ® or mineral (stone) wool?
What is better PENOPLEX ® or mineral wool? This is a question that arises quite often among private developers. Each of these materials has its advantages. For example, PENOPLEX ® is practically indispensable in loaded structures and humid environments, while mineral wool performs better in sound insulation. In addition, some types mineral wool have a lower price, but this advantage often disappears due to the low quality of such wool, as a result - high shrinkage, as well as the need for greater thickness of thermal insulation.
PENOPLEX ® is distinguished from mineral wool by a number of characteristics:
- lower thermal conductivity coefficient.
- high compressive strength
- absolute moisture resistance (PENOPLEX ® does not absorb water, due to which it retains its thermal insulation properties throughout its entire service life).
- absolute biostability (PENOPLEX ® is not a matrix for the development of bacteria, mold and other microorganisms).
- ease of installation (PENOPLEX ® does not require special means protection when working with it).
What is the density of PENOPLEX ®?
The density of PENOPLEX ® boards for private use ranges from 23 to 35 kg/m3. For the professional segment, this figure can reach up to 45 kg/m3. It is important to understand that the density of PENOPLEX ® is not a key factor in determining the scope of application of the material. A more important characteristic is compressive strength. The strength characteristics of PENOPLEX ® vary over a wider range. The minimum compressive strength at 10% deformation for PENOPLEX ® slabs is 0.12 MPa; such slabs are used for non-load-bearing structures (for example, for wall insulation). The slabs intended for insulation of foundations have higher compressive strength values - 0.3 MPa, since it is these structures that bear the main loads from the building. PENOLEX ® grades intended for road construction and constructs with increased loads can have a strength of 0.50 MPa and higher.
A wide range of characteristics allows the use of PENOPLEX ® slabs for insulation of almost any structures, both in cottage and low-rise buildings, as well as in industrial and civil construction.
What is the melting point of PENOPLEX?
The temperature range of application of PENOPLEX ® boards is in the range from -70 to +75 degrees Celsius, which allows the use of this material in any climatic zones.
At temperatures above 75 degrees Celsius, PENOPLEX ® can change its mechanical properties in the direction of reducing the strength of the material.
How many bricks does PENOPLEX ® replace?
If we compare materials in terms of thermal insulation properties, a PENOPLEX ® slab with a thickness of 50 mm (λ = 0.034 W/m2°C) will replace 1280 mm of masonry on a thermal insulating mortar made of solid single brick (λ = 0.82 W/m2°C). (According to GOST 530-2012 Ceramic brick and stone. General technical conditions. Table D.1 - Thermal characteristics continuous (conditional) masonry).
On average thermal insulation properties 1 cm PENOPLEX ® replaces 25 cm brickwork, but you should remember - for each individual type of brick (silicate, ceramic, clinker) this comparison will be different.
The use of insulation in the construction of buildings significantly reduces heating costs in winter period year and air conditioning during the summer heat.
Choosing the right thermal insulation is quite difficult. The market offers a huge number of rolled, bulk and tile insulation, which do an excellent job of thermal insulation. Among modern and inexpensive means for insulation, the most popular is penoplex, which, among other advantages, can be independently installed in private construction.
What properties does insulation have, as well as how much penoplex costs and how to choose the most suitable block in size will be described in detail in the article.
What is penoplex
In order to properly perform insulation work with penoplex, you need to know about the basic technical capabilities of the material. Penoplex is a type of foam plastic that is significantly superior to its predecessor in many respects.
The basis of penoplex is polystyrene chips, which in a special chamber are exposed to high temperatures with the addition of substances that produce gas when heated. In this way, foaming of the molten polystyrene mass is carried out.
At the production stage, various plasticizers, light stabilizers, antioxidants and other fillers that improve strength and aesthetic qualities are added to the mixture. The final stage of penoplex production is its extrusion from the extruder, followed by uniform cooling on the transport belt. Where the material is shaped into a slab or block.
The series is universal and can be used for insulation of private buildings. The density of the material ranges from 25 to 35 kg/m3.
5. Penoplex 45 is the most durable type, which is used in the construction of roads and runways.
Density is about 45 kg/m3.
6. Penoplex 35 (old name) - the most popular type, which is ideal for construction thermal insulation coating like with inside, and for thermal insulation of the building facade.
The density of the material is 26-37 kg/m3.
When constructing buildings, it is recommended to choose the brand of insulation that will be most suitable for a certain type works Failure to comply with the rule can lead to destruction of the insulating layer or to insufficient insulation efficiency.
Specifications
The technical characteristics of penoplex allow the material to be used for insulation in various climatic zones of the country.
The main qualities of insulation are:
- Thermal conductivity - penoplex has excellent thermal insulation characteristics. The average thermal conductivity is 0.03 W/m·ºK.
- Moisture resistance - due to the fact that penoplex does not absorb water, it can be successfully used for roof insulation. In many cases, the use of the material allows you to do without additional measures to apply a moisture-proof layer to the walls.
- Chemical resistance - does not enter into chemical reaction with many materials used in construction. There are exceptions, solvents: gasoline, toluene, kerosene, acetone and diesel fuel can completely dissolve the material. Therefore, during storage, transportation and execution repair work the possibility of contact of insulation with them should be completely excluded.
- There is absolutely no biological effect on penoplex from any fungi or other microflora negative impacts. Only rodents can damage the insulation board, as they move through the material without much effort.
- Resistant to mechanical damage- well tolerated high loads. For example, at 10% linear deformation, the strength of the material is at least 0.2 MPa.
- Fire safety - the material is flammable, but when fire retardants are added to the composition, the flame can self-extinguish. It should be noted that when burning, the stove emits caustic smoke that is hazardous to human health.
- Operating temperature - the average operating temperature ranges from - 50 to + 75 degrees. In this range, penoplex fully retains its mechanical qualities and physical properties. If during operation the material is exposed to a higher temperature, it may melt, and in frost below minus 50 degrees the insulation will become brittle and brittle.
- Environmental friendliness - modern technologies allow the production of polymer products without the addition of toxic substances, so insulation, when correct operation absolutely safe for health.
- Service life - with proper installation and operation, foam insulation will last at least 50 years without reducing its thermal insulation properties.
All of the listed qualities of penoplex are present in all series of the material, differing slightly in density and mechanical strength depending on the purpose and thickness of the block.
Manufacturers and price
In order for the insulation to fully comply with the characteristics manufactured in accordance with GOST, it is recommended to purchase products from well-known manufacturers.
1. BASF - the concern is a leader in the chemical industry, including the production of synthetic insulation. BASF Penoplex has highest quality and is sold on the market at a relatively low price. The sizes and price per piece differ, for example, material 20 mm thick will cost about 70 rubles. A slab 40 mm thick can be purchased for 140 rubles.
2. Polimeri Europa - the insulation from this manufacturer is also not inferior in quality and variety of types. But the cost is higher than that of competitors. The price of penoplex 100x600x1200 Polimeri Europa will be about 400 rubles per sheet.
3. Nova Chemicals - polystyrene foam from a well-known Canadian company specializing in the production of chemical products. Penoplex price 50x600x1200 mm Nova Chemicals on domestic market 205 rubles per sheet.
4. Styrochem - expanded polystyrene made in Finland. It is distinguished by good quality, relatively low cost and a large selection of sizes. Buy penoplex from this company at Russian market possible from 130 rubles for 40x600x1200 mm (cost 1 unit).
5. TechnoNIKOL is a domestic manufacturer of penoplex, whose products can successfully compete with the best examples of foreign-made insulation. You can purchase TechnoNIKOL polystyrene foam from 63 rubles per sheet measuring 20x600x1200.
The number of sheets in the package depending on the thickness of the material, see the table:
Any of the listed manufacturers values their business reputation, so when making a purchase at a retail outlet that sells original products, you don’t have to worry about the quality of the purchased product.
Going to specialized shopping centers To purchase a heat insulator, you need to know in advance about possible pitfalls that may await an inexperienced builder.
To choose high-quality insulation made on the basis of polystyrene, you must:
- When choosing a material, pay attention to the declared density. If the indicator is less than 25 kg/m3, then this is most likely a fake.
- When a slab breaks, high-quality penoplex gives an even cut with cells in the form of polyhedra. If the cells are round shape, then it is better to refuse the purchase.
- If there are pronounced traces of deformation on the packaging, this means that during loading and unloading operations, as well as during transportation, the product was subjected to excessive loads. If such visual signs are present, you should refuse to purchase the product.
- The size of thermal insulation blocks should be selected based on the area of the room to be insulated. At large area To increase speed, you should choose larger blocks.
Before purchasing a large batch of insulation, you can do your own research. Check the material for compliance with density, self-extinguishing properties and resistance to moisture.
In addition, a similar building material called “Technoplex” is available for sale.
What better than technoplex or penoplex? Technoplex is more expensive and the temperature range is from - 70 to + 75 degrees. And in other respects, the heat insulators are almost identical. Is it worth overpaying?
P.S. All you have to do is choose the brand of heat insulator and purchase the required number of sheets. Good luck!
Do Vacation home Every owner strives to be comfortable throughout the year. Comfort consists of several components, but largely depends on insulation. One of the most popular insulation materials present on the construction market is penoplex insulation. This slab insulation, although it has almost a century-old history, does not lose its position, since it has a number of advantages over other materials.
Penoplex boards in packaging Source nkkconsult.ru
A little history
A brief history of extruded polystyrene foam ( official name penoplex) looks like this:
1941. Like many other useful things, the material was originally developed for the needs of the army (in this case, the US Navy). This year, The Dow Chemical company received a patent for a new development, and already in 1942 it established large-scale supplies. The moisture-resistant material with excellent heat-insulating properties was used in the production of boats and life rafts.
1952. After the war, the Americans continued to use penoplex, its use expanded significantly, first in the refrigeration industry, and then in construction.
1963 G. Extruded polystyrene foam has spread throughout Europe and has since occupied a stable niche in the insulation market.
1998. Extruded polystyrene foam began to be produced in Russia (in Leningrad region) under the Penoplex trademark and was adequately appreciated by builders.
Extruded polystyrene foam made in Europe Source cleech.co
About production technology
Extruded polystyrene foam (penoplex, XPS) is a related material to ordinary polystyrene foam, commonly known as polystyrene foam. Penoplex is also made from polystyrene granules, but the technological chain has a different form:
Preparing the mixture. The granules are loaded into a mixer, where they melt under the influence of elevated temperature, and after introducing a foaming agent under pressure, they form the desired homogeneous structure.
Molding. The foam mixture passes through extruders (forming holes), is cooled and cut into slabs.
Result. The structure of extruded polystyrene foam forms many small cells filled with air. Due to the fact that the cells are closed, the material acquires the properties of an excellent heat insulator. The color of the slabs is yellow-orange, less often blue.
Production (cutting) of slabs Source terman-s.ru
Advantages and disadvantages of penoplex
Like anyone building material, penoplex has its own strengths and weak sides. Knowledge of the characteristics of the material will allow you to use it with maximum efficiency; in number positive characteristics includes the following parameters:
Low thermal conductivity. The thermal conductivity coefficient does not exceed 0.03 W/m·ºK, which indicates a high degree of thermal insulation.
Low water absorption. 0.5% by volume per month.
High compressive and flexural strength– 0.27 MPa. This property allows the slabs to be used not only as insulation, but also as a building material that is not subject to structural cracking.
Light weight. Due to its low density, the material does not create a load on the supporting elements.
Wide operating range. The material does not lose properties in the range from -50 to +75°C.
Durability. The service life is 30-50 years.
Easy installation.
Thermal insulation properties of plates in comparison with other materials Source tproekt.com
In order for penoplex to bring the expected benefits, you should also remember the disadvantages (and take them into account):
Low vapor permeability. The indicator is worse than that of polystyrene foam, which makes you think about a good ventilation system.
Flammability. Belongs to class G3-G4 (normally and highly flammable substances).
Environmental friendliness. The material is safe for health if it does not contain harmful impurities. Existing variety– self-extinguishing polystyrene foam, impregnated with fire retardant and can have Negative influence for a person.
Extremely low noise insulation.
UV instability. It is destroyed by exposure to sunlight and needs protection during storage.
Instability to a number of organic solvents and other substances. These include gasoline, diesel fuel, oil paints, polyester resins, aromatic hydrocarbons, and ethers.
Facade insulation works complex shape Source hi.decorexpro.com
On our website you can find contacts of construction companies that offer house insulation services. You can communicate directly with representatives by visiting the “Low-Rise Country” exhibition of houses.
Types and sizes of thermal insulation boards
Manufacturers produce foam sheets, the size and specific density of which are indicated on the packaging and determine the limits of use of the material. The following types of slabs are available:
For walls. Plates with a density of 25-32 kg/m3 are used to insulate the facade (due to the low vapor permeability of the material, additional vapor barrier will be required interior spaces). At external insulation Non-residential buildings will not require a vapor barrier. Finally, you can plaster over a metal mesh, or cladding with a façade material of your choice (lining, siding, ceramic tiles).
For roofing. It is known that up to 20% of heat is lost through a poorly insulated roof. Penoplex "Roof" is designed specifically for thermal insulation of roofs, pitched or flat. Lightweight and moisture-resistant slabs with a density of 28-33 kg/m 3 are simply joined together without the formation of cold bridges. The material is rigid enough to withstand significant installation and operating loads; it is equipped with a groove that ensures a tight fit.
Packaging marking Source samodelino.ru
For the foundation. The increased density of the slabs (29-33 kg/m 3) allows them to be used for arranging the foundation, ground floor, garden paths, insulation of septic tanks and utilities.
Penoplex "Comfort". Sheets with a density of 25-35 kg/m 3 have an L-shaped edge, so they can be installed without any problems. Thermal insulation boards are widely used in private housing construction (including insulation of baths, saunas and swimming pools), as well as for high-quality insulation of apartments (especially loggias and balconies).
Penoplex 45 (GEO). High-density (35-47 kg/m3) material, suitable for use under constant heavy loads. It is used for insulation of runways, roads (roads and railways), exploited roofs, parking lots and pedestrian areas.
There are calculation tables for various regions that determine the choice of foam sheets; the thickness in them is a key indicator. The most commonly used plates are 20-100 mm thick. Depending on the brand, the length varies between 1200-2400 mm, the width is always the same - 600 mm. The number of slabs in a package can vary from 4 to 18 pieces.
Video description
About the production and features of penoplex in the following video:
Methods for attaching penoplex
In modern suburban construction, the installation of penoplex slabs is carried out in three ways:
Using an adhesive composition. A universal method suitable for insulating a large surface, facade or basement, followed by plastering.
Using fasteners. If a significant load on the insulation layer is not expected, the sheets are secured using plastic disc dowels. The method is suitable for insulating a basement or loggia.
Using polyurethane foam . The advantage of polyurethane foam is that high adhesion (adhesion to the surface) plays an important role in floor insulation, attic floor and walls.
Slab installation methods Source vest-beton.ru
Insulation of the facade: stages of installing slabs with glue
The process of insulating a façade with penoplex slabs is as follows:
Surface preparation. Contaminants and the old cladding layer are removed from the working base. If there are mold spots, they are treated separately (disinfected with copper sulfate). If necessary, the surface is leveled and primed.
Installation. The sheets are glued in rows, from bottom to top, with bandaging (offset) of the seams. The adhesive composition is applied to the foam sheet in two crosswise lines. In an alternative method, if the glue is applied to the work surface, it is done in a continuous layer. Each slab is pressed against the wall, its position is checked by level.
Video description
About thermal insulation with penoplex pitched roof in the following video:
Sheet cutting. The obvious method, breaking the sheet, is not suitable, as it produces an extremely sloppy, crumbling line and irreversibly damages the part. A regular hacksaw gives a better, but also not perfect, edge. The best results are obtained when using an electric jigsaw. If you need a sheet of a more complex (curly) shape, you often use a heated tungsten wire (which requires some skill) or a thermal cutter. Laser cutting is carried out in a workshop environment and allows you to obtain neat and precise parts (templates or decorative elements).
Additional fastening . It is necessary if the adhesive method has shown imperfect results and the slabs are moving away from the base. In this case, self-tapping screws installed in the corners of the sheets will help. Alternative way– thermal dowels with wide caps, which are installed in the seam between the sheets and fix several elements at the same time.
Preparing penoplex for plastering. The heat insulator layer is covered with glue, onto which a metal mesh base is fixed (embedded), and the top is additionally leveled with glue.
Decor window box penoplex Source tstmoskva.ru
Finishing work. After the glue on the reinforcing mesh has dried, they proceed to the finishing cladding with plaster.
How not to lose money
If designers and builders do not take into account the physical and chemical characteristics of penoplex, its strength and thermal characteristics deteriorate long before the end of its service life, which leads to a decrease in the thermal efficiency of the house. Some of the most common errors include the following solutions:
Use of material with a density lower than technologically justified. Penoplex, like any polymer, is oxidized by atmospheric oxygen. Rate of oxidation (change in chemical structure and deterioration operational properties) depends on the density of the material. The use of slabs with a lower density (an understandable desire to save money) deteriorates the thermal protection of the structure 2-3 times faster, and this is noticeable already in the first 7-10 years of operation.
Internal insulation Source chebaki.ru
Use of incompatible materials. Plates made of extruded polystyrene foam will deteriorate at an accelerated rate if substances that are dangerous to the structure of the penoplex (for example, oil-based paints containing volatile hydrocarbons) are used during construction.
Ignorance of labeling features. An inexperienced person, seeing the words “Mark 25” on the packaging, makes a logical, in his opinion, conclusion that inside there are slabs with a density of 25 kg/m 3. But in technical conditions This designates material with a density from 15.1 to 25.0 kg/m3. Some manufacturers, caring for maximum profits, supply penoplex of the lowest density (15.1 kg/m2) under this brand 3 , density of packaging plastic). The result of the substitution soon appears on the “insulated” façade – with damp spots and mold.
Improper insulation. Improper insulation leaves an air gap between the wall and the slab material. The structure becomes inhomogeneous, the dew point shifts into the gap. Condensation is inevitably absorbed into a denser material (wall), and thermal efficiency drops, sometimes significantly.
Insulation is complete, finishing cladding is ahead Source doma-otido.ru
Conclusion
Each owner, investing significant sums in the construction country house, expects that housing will be long years, serve faithfully for decades. The reliability of walls and internal comfort largely depend on properly carried out insulation. Competent use of penoplex will make significant savings in thermal energy (the main goal of any insulation), and, therefore, the family budget.